What does it mean that Zerubbabel was the LORD’s signet ring (Haggai 2:23)? What does it mean that Zerubbabel was the LORD’s signet ring (Haggai 2:23)? Subscribe to our Question of the Week : Question: "What does it mean that Zerubbabel was the LORD’s signet ring (Haggai 2:23)?" Answer: In Haggai 2:23 we read, “‘On that day,’ declares the LORD Almighty, ‘I will take you, my servant Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel,’ declares the LORD, ‘and I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you.’” What did God mean when He said Zerubbabel was His signet ring? Ancient kings used signet rings to designate authority, honor, or ownership. A signet contained an emblem unique to the king. Official documents were sealed with a dollop of soft wax impressed with the king’s signet, usually kept on a ring on his finger. Such a seal certified the document as genuine, much like a notary public’s stamp today.

In 1 Kings 21:8, the evil Queen Jezebel took King Ahab’s signet ring and “wrote letters in Ahab’s name and sealed them with his seal.” The ring’s stamp gave her letters the king’s authority. In Daniel 6:17, a signet ring was used to seal a stone covering a lions’ den: “A stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.” A royal signet ring is also featured in Genesis 41:41-43 and Esther 8:8. It is important to understand who Zerubbabel is. He is the governor of the rebuilt Jerusalem and is himself of royal blood, being a descendant of David and the grandson of Judah’s King Jehoiachin. Years earlier, Jehoiachin had lost his throne when he was deported to Babylon; in fact, God pictured Jehoiachin as a signet ring being removed from God’s finger (Jeremiah 22:24).

Now, God calls Zerubbabel the “signet ring,” but this time it won’t be removed. In Haggai’s prophecy, God is giving Zerubbabel encouragement and hope. The governor is “chosen” for a unique and noble purpose. As God’s signet ring, Zerubbabel is given a place of honor and authority. God is reinstating the Davidic line and renewing His covenant with David. Judah still has a future as they look forward to the coming Son of David, the Messiah, who would one day “overturn royal thrones and shatter the power of the foreign kingdoms” (Haggai 2:22). Zerubbabel is also called “my servant.” This title was often a Messianic reference in the Old Testament (2 Samuel 3:18; 1 Kings 11:34; Isaiah 42:1-9; 49:1-13; 50:4-11; 52:13-53:12; Ezekiel 34:23-24; 37:24-25).

The triad of servant, son, and signet ring creates a special combination of encouragement given to few in Scripture. Zerubbabel was an important leader involved in the reconstruction of the Jewish temple. As God’s “signet ring,” Zerubbabel becomes a picture of the future Messiah, Jesus Christ, who will establish His people in the Promised Land, construct an even grander temple (Zechariah 6:12-13), and lead the righteous in never-ending worship. : - Resources for Ancient Biblical Studies Manners & Customs: Signet Rings Signet Rings in the Ancient World Men's Ornamentation ORNAMENTATION As a rule, Jewish men did not indulge in extravagances of dress, and there was little ornamentation among them. They often carried a cane or staff, which would be ornamented at the top, but it served the useful purpose of protecting them from half-wild dogs that abounded in the country, and was not much of an ornament. Certain men wore a ring on their right hand or, suspended by a cord or chain around the neck. Actually this was the signet ring or seal, and served as the personal signature of its owner, and so was not usually worn as an ornament.

(For Scriptural examples of the ring, see Genesis 38:18; Song of Solomon 8:6; Luke 15:22, etc.) [Manners And Customs of Bible Lands] Ring in Fausset's Bible Dictionary tabaath, "to impress with a seal." frontEARRING.) Used as "a signet" (Genesis 38:18, chothem), worn on the hand, or suspended, as the Arabs do, by a cord from the neck. Pharaoh's transfer of his ring from his finger to Joseph betokened his investing him with royal authority (Genesis 41:42; a device, as the beetle or the owner's name, was engraven on it, Exodus 28:11). So Ahasuerus in the case of Haman (Esther 3:8-10), and Mordecai (Esther 8:2). In Luke 15:22 it is the father's token of favor, dignity, and sonship to the prodigal; Roman slaves wore no gold rings.

We are no longer slaves, but God's free sons when we believe, and receive the Holy Spirit as the pledge of sonship and earnest of sharing the Father's glory (Galatians 4:3-7). Rich men (especially Romans of the equestrian order, whose badge the ring was) wore many rings on the left hand (James 2:2). Greek "golden-ringed," not merely with one ring. Christians derived the usage of the wedding ring from the Jews. The ring was treasured much, and so symbolizes what is most precious to us (Jeremiah 22:24, Jehoiachin's popularity is alluded to); the signet ring was worn on the right hand (contrast Haggai 2:23). A costly sacrifice to the Lord (Exodus 35:22). Song of Solomon 5:14, "his hands" bent are compared to "rings" in which "beryls" are set, as the nails in the fingers; compare as to our names being "sealed" upon His heart, Song of Solomon 8:6, and palms, Isaiah 49:16.

The bride desires herself to be a signet ring on His arm. God in turn seals us with His signet (Revelation 7:2-4), "I will make thee as a signet" (Haggai 2:23), i.e. an object of constant regard, as the ring is ever before the eye. Christ the Antitype is always in the Father's presence, ever pleasing in His sight; so we, through Him our representative. The signet represents legally the owner; so Christ wields the Father's delegated authority (Matthew 28:18; John 5:22-23).

Ring in Naves Topical Bible Of gold Nu 31:50 -Worn as a badge of office Ge 41:42 -Given as a token Es 3:10,12; 8:2-10 -Worn in the nose Pr 11:22; Isa 3:21 -Offerings of, to the tabernacle Ex 35:22; Nu 31:50 Ring in Smiths Bible Dictionary The ring was regarded as an indispensable article of a Hebrew's attire, inasmuch as it contained his signet. It was hence the symbol of authority. Ge 41:42; Es 3:10 Rings were worn not only by men, but by women. Isa 3:21 We may conclude from Ex 28:11 that the rings contained a stone engraven with a device or with the owner's name. The custom appears also to have prevailed among the Jews of the apostolic age.

Jas 2:2 Ring in the Bible Encyclopedia - ISBE (Anglo-Saxon, Hring, "ring"): The word renders (the American Standard Revised Version) two Hebrew words (in the King James Version and the English Revised Version three) and two Greek words. Tabba`ath, the principal Hebrew word, is from Tabha`, "sink," either because the ring is something "cast" or molded, or, more probably, since the principal use of the ring was as a seal, because it "sank" into the wax or clay that received the impression. In Exodus, Tabba`ath, "ring," is a detail of furniture or equipment, as the rings of the ark through which the staves were thrust (Ex 25:12, etc.), rings for curtains, in the high priest's ephod (Ex 28:28; 39:21), etc. Its other use was perhaps the original, to describe the article of personal adornment worn on the finger, apparently in the Old Testament always a signet- ring, and as such an indispensable article of masculine attire.

Such a ring Pharaoh gave Joseph as a symbol of authority (Gen 41:42); and Ahasuerus gave Haman (Est 3:10); with it the royal missive was sealed (Est 3:12; 8:8 twice,10). It was also a feminine ornament in Isaiah's list of the fashionable feminine paraphernalia, "the rings and the nose-jewels" (quite likely rings also) (Isa 3:21). Either as ornaments or for their intrinsic value, or both, rings were used as gifts for sacred purposes from both men and women: "brooches, and ear-rings, and signet-rings" (margin "nose-rings") (Ex 35:22); "bracelets, rings (the American Standard Revised Version "signet-rings"), ear- rings" (Nu 31:50 the King James Version).

chotham, "signet," mentioned in Gen 38:18,25; Ex 28:11,21,36; Ex 39:6,14,30; Jer 22:24; Hag 2:23, etc., was probably usually a seal ring, but in Gen 38 and elsewhere the seal may have been swung on wire, and suspended by a cord from the neck. It was not only an identification, but served as a stamp for signature. galil, "circle" (compare "Galilee," "Circle" of the Gentiles), rendered "ring" in Est 1:6; Song 5:14, may rather mean "cylinder" or "rod" of metal. Earring (which see) in the King James Version is from totally different words: nezem, whose etymology is unknown, aghil, "round," or lachash, "amulet"; so the Revised Version (British and American).

The "rings" of the wheels in Ezek 1:18 (the King James Version) are gabh, "curved," and mean "rims" (American Standard Revised Version), "felloes." Egyptians especially wore a great profusion of rings, principally of silver or gold, engraved with scarabaei, or other devices. In the New Testament the ring, daktulios, "finger-ring," is a token of means, position, standing: "put a ring on his hand" (Lk 15:22). Perhaps also it included the right to give orders in his father's name. To be chrusodaktulios, "golden-ringed," perhaps with more than one, indicated wealth and social rank: "a man with a gold ring" (Jas 2:2). Signet in Easton's Bible Dictionary a seal used to attest documents (Dan. 6:8-10, 12). In 6:17, this word properly denotes a ring. The impression of a signet ring on fine clay has recently been discovered among the ruins at Nineveh. It bears the name and title of an Egyptian king.

Two actual signet rings of ancient Egyptian monarchs (Cheops and Horus) have also been discovered. When digging a shaft close to the south wall of the temple area, the engineers of the Israel Exploration Fund, at a depth of 12 feet below the surface, came upon a pavement of polished stones, formerly one of the streets of the city. Under this pavement they found a stratum of 16 feet of concrete, and among this concrete, 10 feet down, they found a signet stone bearing the inscription, in Old Hebrew characters, "Haggai, son of Shebaniah." It has been asked, Might not this be the actual seal of Haggai the prophet? We know that he was in Jerusalem after the Captivity; and it is somewhat singular that he alone of all the minor prophets makes mention of a signet (Hag. 2:23). (See SEAL �T0003246.) Signet Scripture - Daniel 6:17 And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel.

Signet Scripture - Exodus 28:11 With the work of an engraver in stone, [like] the engravings of a signet, shalt thou engrave the two stones with the names of the children of Israel: thou shalt make them to be set in ouches of gold. Signet Scripture - Exodus 28:21 And the stones shall be with the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, [like] the engravings of a signet; every one with his name shall they be according to the twelve tribes. Signet Scripture - Exodus 28:36 And thou shalt make a plate [of] pure gold, and grave upon it, [like] the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. Signet Scripture - Exodus 39:14 And the stones [were] according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, [like] the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.

Signet Scripture - Exodus 39:30 And they made the plate of the holy crown [of] pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, [like to] the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. Signet Scripture - Genesis 38:18 And he said, What pledge shall I give thee? And she said, Thy signet, and thy bracelets, and thy staff that [is] in thine hand. And he gave [it] her, and came in unto her, and she conceived by him. Signet Scripture - Genesis 38:25 When she [was] brought forth, she sent to her father in law, saying, By the man, whose these [are, am] I with child: and she said, Discern, I pray thee, whose [are] these, the signet, and bracelets, and staff.

Signet Scripture - Haggia 2:23 In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the LORD, and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts. Signet Scripture - Jeremiah 22:24 [As] I live, saith the LORD, though Coniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah were the signet upon my right hand, yet would I pluck thee thence; The Signet Ring Guide — Gentleman's Gazette / 13 Comments /in Accessories , Gentleman's Query , Savoir Vivre , Wardrobe /by J.A. Shapira Today the signet ring doesn’t hold much meaning in society. It’s more of a fashion statement or family heirloom handed down from one generation to the next. Rarely seen today, it was once an important part of society and culture and played a significant role in history. Considered the “gentleman’s ring”, there doesn’t seem a more perfect piece of jewelry to proudly exhibit at Gentleman’s Gazette than that of the signet ring.

We hope you enjoy this short primer. The History of Signet Rings Historically, signet rings played a very important role in business and politics. Used as a seal, the gentleman would use his ring which featured his unique family crest, emblem or monogram to sign legal or important documents, some of which played remarkable roles in our history books. By dipping the ring into hot wax or soft clay, the ring left a distinct seal that was considered, at the time, to be more official than that of a signature. Used on a global scale by the world’s leaders and monumental men, the ring was seen as a way to prove authenticity when the electronic world of the internet, was not yet at our fingertips. While they were quite resplendent, they were in fact created with the purpose of acting as a signature or seal, and because of how they were utilized, they are often referred to as seal rings today. The ring itself had markings on it that identified the specific person or the family of the person wearing it. Sometimes this was a family crest or a coat of arms, but other times it was nothing more than an icon or a monogram that was associated with a family.

The ring was made in mirrored image to ensure it came out properly when leaving its mark or impression. Therefore, the rings are often difficult to make and cost a significant amount of money. Many world leaders opted to wear these rings on a daily basis whereas others stowed them safely away. Today, variations of signet rings still occur with many Freemasons wearing a marked ring identifying themselves to others. Many other clubs and organizations offer seal rings as well. I myself wear one on an almost daily basis. There are still those who commission a ring maker to create a family signet ring, but most men who own the traditional signet rings inherited them from their ancestors and will eventually hand it down to the next generation. Therefore, the ring isn’t a true mark of them as an individual, but of someone else in the line. Signet rings have been used since as far back as 3500 BC when the people of Mesopotamia began using them as a method of authenticity. Initially, a seal as opposed to a ring, it was a cylindrical device that was rolled across wet clay leaving a distinct impression in the clay.

Used to seal a variety of envelopes, jars and packages, they also functioned in the same way as corporate seals do today, and of course, this is where the corporate seal comes from. Then, in Ancient Egypt, the ring began to be produced. Pharoahs, religious leaders and nobles would wear the rings made of stone or a pottery called faience. The rings were flat on the outside and ornate with decorations and symbols used to denote its owner. In fact, the Old Testament even mentions signet rings in the story of Daniel in the lion’s den… And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. (Daniel 6:17) In the Early Minoan age the rings were formed out of soft stones and ivory. Come the Middle Minoan age they were made of harder stone and by the Late Bronze age, they had become the signet rings we know today. During the Hellenistic period, they were considered an art form in addition to being used for a purpose.

King Mithridates VI of Pontus was an avid collector of signet rings. By medieval times, almost every person of nobility wore a signet ring and used it to sign and seal their letters of nobility or other important papers. The signet ring was now widely considered the only authentic way to sign without worry of forgery or tampering. By the fourteenth century and under the stronghold or King Edward II, it was said that all official documents must bear the seal of the king’s signet ring. Despite some people having signet rings that were handed down, most of them are actually quite modern. For many centuries the ring would be destroyed when the owner passed and because they were worn by noblemen, they weren’t copied and were considered very valuable, hence their name “signet” which is translated to mean “a small seal employed for formal or official purpose”. By the middle ages and well into the nineteenth century, most men wore these rings with some form of badge on the flat side. With the King’s signet being the most prized signet in the world, all men viewed their rings as important artifacts.

It was a mark of elitism, class and that you were a member of the superior society of men if you had a true signet ring. It is without question, equivocation or mental reservation, in my opinion at least, the first true piece of jewelry used for a distinctly practical purpose. Despite legal documents being around, the art of handwriting was not and that’s one reason why the signet ring was so vital and important to members of society who would be responsible for signing such documents. In some ways, I almost wish this concept was around today. How easy it must have been to simply press your finger into a document rather than write a signature. Since the ring was so powerful, it was destroyed when the man died and often a ceremony or ritual was performed. The first signet rings were made with raised decoration and lettering whereas, following the development of sealing wax, it was actually made with a depressed design. The image would be left when the ring was pressed into it therefore had to be resilient to wear and damage. Often the rings would be made of gold or silver with the design cast, rather than carved into the flat end of the ring. Although large in size, they were also intended as a symbol of class and wealth.

Due to the considerable cost, many families had a single ring that was handed down from father to son – only the very wealthy or important members of society had rings exclusive to them. This included the king, religious leaders, doctors of medicine, barristers and solicitors as well as other noblemen. With the popularity of the rings increasing, many families would keep these heavy and large rings in family jewel boxes as they became more ornate and decorated over the years. Many times men would opt not to wear them on their finger and instead mounted them on chains or the fob of their pocket watch. The most common rings were initials and monograms with the more titled men wearing rings decorated with their official coat of arms or family crest. Some had simple symbols and others had one letter or a distinct pattern. As the nineteenth century approached, men began to engrave precious stones such as rubies, bloodstone and other semi-precious gems fastened to their ring. The stones would be set on a bezel that rotated so it could be worn facing out or against the finger. September 30, 2014 at 8:40 AM Good advice Charles, though you make it sound like it is similar to a Dr.

title or anything else of that kind, which is simply not true. You can wear fake signet rings all day long without violating the law. Of course, it is preferable to create your own family crest rather than copying someone elses and Heraldry is in fact all very precise and interesting. If one just wants to wear a ring with a stone or an initial, why not. Of course, some people like your friend won’t like it and I can understand them, at the same time it is ok to start new traditions of one’s own. After all, that’s how every family crest started in the first place. Trackbacks & Pingbacks What are Signet Rings? | International What are Signet Rings? Thursday, February 28, 2013 2:50 % of readers think this story is Fact. Add your two cents. (Before It's News) Many do not know about what are signet rings, but it holds decades of history and has made its niche segment in the jewelry market. It is a finger ring or accessory that usually comes engraved with wearer’s initials. If not the initial then this ring often found worn with personalized designs.

The band may be ornate and can found influenced from celtic or Egypt styles or can even remain plain. The market for this type of ring has been popularized over the years due to which a huge amount of designs as part of fashion have been introduced. Mainly, the blank bands are found around, but wearer can request engraving on the ring to put some information of his/her own. Often it is found that customers requesting to create a flat bezel with initials on it. This pattern is actually considered as signet rings. Today, this type of ring has turned widely ornamental with personalized initials that replace the complex coat of arms that are seen on antique rings. Dating back to time, they were mostly used by politicians, wealthy citizens and religious leaders. Therefore, this ring was represented as official signature. Even this ring was applied with wax or soft clay so that the wearer can press a distinctive seal on the documents and decrees while preventing from tampering. This is why signet rings are often called seal rings. One of the most significant differences found between an antique signet ring and the modern signet ring is that making an official seal. Earlier, authentic rings were both ornamental and functional due to which they were readily recognized as official.

Engraver used to create mirror image of the wearer’s sign, coat of arms or initials. However, the modern form of ring is not used as official signatures due to which engraving on the ring are no longer made in mirror style. Still, many prefer to have a collection of antique signets, mainly because of their scarcity. Only few antique rings ever created that possess their authorized copies to reduce the chances of fraud. Signet rings which served as official marks for notable personalities or politicians are kept in museum collections or under restricted area. Owners can create their specific signet rings by ordering through retail jewelry stores or can make online shopping. Generally, the concept is that a blank band is chosen first and then designs, fonts, scripting letters or anything else is engraved on the blank area. Custom designs are also used from detailed photographs or any designs given by customers. This ring is not decorated with large stones, but engraving the ring and making it visually appealing is the mainly concept of signet ring.

2013-02-28 02:49:33 The Signet Ring - Bible History Online Bible History Online Timelines & Charts The Signet Ring Daniel 6:17 "Then a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signets of his lords, that the purpose concerning Daniel might not be changed." The king sealed it with his own "signet ring" An Emblem of Authority Dan 6:17 "Then a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signets of his lords, that the purpose concerning Daniel might not be changed." The "signet ring," also known as a "seal" comes from the Hebrew word "hotam" and the Greek word "sphragis" and was used universally in the ancient world. It was a portable instrument used much like we use a signature today, but much more important. They would seal or stamp a document, or the door of a house, or a tomb, etc. It was also an emblem of authority. Authentic ancient documents contain seals.

The way they did it was to cover it with "ink" and press it. Most often it was attached to a ring and worn on the finger or else it hung from the neck on a string or on the arm. Many shapes have been discovered ranging from cylindrical, square and round, to oval and pyramid shape. The engraver was a common occupation in ancient times. The ancient Egyptians most familiar form of a signet ring was made of stone, round on one side and flat on the other. The flat side was very elaborate and bore the inscription, usually containing symbols, hieroglyphic letters, and the scarabaeus or sacred beetle. The beetle was worshipped by the Egyptians as well as the Phoenicians and other cultures. Examples of these seals are known as far back as the Fourth Dynasty, c. 2550 B.C. Sometimes they were made of blue pottery or porcelain or a lump of clay, impressed with a seal and attached to the document by strings. Cylinder Seals In ancient Mesopotamia around 3500 BC the cylinder seal was first used. At Uruk (Erech in the Bible, Gen.

10:10) which is modern Warka, two small square tablets of gypsum plaster were uncovered that contained impressions of cylinder seals. They were apparently rolled across soft clay, a package or jar was sealed with wet clay and the seal was rolled over it. Soon after, the Persians introduced the stamp seals. The Uruk seals display amazing beauty. Henri A. Frankfort, formerly research professor of oriental archaeology at the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago, made monumental studies in the development of the cylinder seal from the prehistoric period to the dynasties of ancient Sumer and Babylon down to the Persian period. See Frankfort's book, Cylinder Seals where he discusses his research of over 1000 discovered seals. One interesting seal is the Lapis Lazuli seal of Queen Puabi (or Shubad) uncovered by Woolley at Ur. Also the well-known seal of Darius the Great displays the king in his two-wheeled chariot between two date palms.

"Cylinder seals found in ancient Mesopotamia were incised on various hard surfaces including gold, silver, rock crystal, blue chalcedony, carnelian, marble, ivory, jasper, glazed pottery, and simple baked clay. Often seals contain both pictures and written material. Jar-handle seals were also common from c. 2500 B.C. These were used not only in signing Babylonian clay documents but in safekeeping jars containing valuable papers or commodities for shipment to distant lands. A cloth was placed over the neck of the container, soft clay smeared on top of the binding cord, and the cylinder rolled over the wet clay. If the seal was undisturbed at its destination, the merchandise was safe." -Merril F. Unger The Hebrews used the seal as an ordinary piece of equipment. It was mentioned throughout the Bible in many different time periods. Even on the breastplate of the high priest there were engraved gems of the twelve tribes. Christians are Sealed by the Holy Spirit There are many metaphors in the Bible using the "seal" or "engraving" of the Lord as something that is set and permanent. Christians are forever "sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise" Eph.

1:13. This verse we are discussing teaches us much of how things were done in ancient times. The king (Darius) was committed to keep his word, and he sealed the stone which imprisoned Daniel even though it was against the king's wishes. Darius even fasted the whole night for a miracle concerning the Jewish God, Yahweh, to somehow preserve Daniel's life. Womens Signet Ring Buying Guide | eBay Womens Signet Ring Buying Guide Share January 18, 2016 Signet rings were originally worn as an official seal as far back as the time of ancient Egypt. Today, some European countries still use the signet ring for this purpose. In the world of fashion, a women's signet ring is a ring with a flat surface that is typically engraved with a personalised design significant to the owner. These personalised designs range from symbols to initials. Women's signet rings come in a variety of plain bands that are custom-engraved to a consumer's liking, or are available with designs that have been previously engraved. The bands that hold these personal designs are typically plain in style but can also be ornate with Celtic or Egyptian influences. Some jewellers consider class rings as a type of signet ring.

Women's signet rings range in size and complexity, so choosing one can be quite overwhelming without the right knowledge. Women's signet rings are available at jewellery stores, department stores, or online. There are a couple of things to consider before shopping for a women's signet ring including: differentiating between antique and modern signet rings, understanding the types of metals used, various signet shapes, and the types of engraving. Antique vs. Modern Women's Signet Rings The first thing for a consumer to consider, is whether they are a looking for a modern or antique signet ring. Antique signet rings come pre-engraved, and were once used for different purposes than today's modern signet rings. Women's Antique Signet Rings Women's antique signet rings hail from a time when the ring's main purpose was to act as an official seal. In the past, these rings were used by politicians, religious leaders, and wealthy citizens as an official signature. The signet ring was pressed into a document sealed with wax or wet clay. Antique women's signet rings are only available with official seals imprinted on them.

Engravers of the past, created a coat of arms, initials, or signature, in a mirror image so that the seal would not contain a reverse image. Women's Modern Signet Rings A women's modern signet ring typically consists of a flat plane of any shape where the wearer's initials, or some personalised design are engraved. Modern signet rings are no longer engraved with the design or initials as a mirror image because these rings no longer function as official seals in the fashion world. Women's modern signet rings also often use engraved gems to make up a personalised signet ring design. Types of Metals Used in Women's Signet Rings Women's signet rings come in a variety of precious metals. These precious metals possess different chemical qualities and characteristics. There are advantages and disadvantages to using each of these metals as the base of a signet ring ranges in durability and appearance. Gold Gold occurs naturally in the earth in the form of gold nuggets, flakes in stream beds, and veins in the ground. Gold has considerable specific weight, high-temperature boiling and melting points, as well as a relatively low hardness. It is also one of the best conductors of electricity and heat.

Different Consistencies of Gold Signet Rings Women's gold signet rings are available in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold . All of these types of gold give a different hue based on the percentage of other metal alloys present. As the names suggest, yellow gold is a yellow colour, white gold is a silver colour, and rose gold is a pink colour. Yellow gold and white gold are the most common types of gold and metal used for women's signet rings. The higher the karat of gold, the higher the purity of the gold. Ensuring Gold Durability Gold is a very durable so it is a good choice for a women's signet ring that is worn regularly. Further, consumers who have allergies should purchase a signet ring with a high gold content, such as 24 karats. The lower the purity, the higher the percentage of other metal alloys present such as nickel, which is often a skin irritant. On the downside, gold is one of the most expensive metals and the price increases as the gold content of the signet increases. Sterling Silver Sterling silver is 92.5 per cent pure silver, and 7.5 per cent other metal alloys.

Sterling silver is by far the most common type of silver used for jewellery because it is much more durable compared to pure silver. Unlike gold, the amount or type of metal alloys added to pure silver to create sterling silver has very little effect on the price. The price of women's sterling silver signet rings increases as the amount of labour, skill, and design increase. Ensuring Quality of Silver Consumers looking to purchase a sterling silver signet ring should look for a fineness or quality mark, which designates the precious metal content of the jewellery. This helps buyers determine if they are looking at a quality women's sterling silver signet ring. Sterling silver is a great choice for women's signet rings because it is both beautiful, durable, and the most affordable. However, sterling silver tends to tarnish over time as it reacts with elements in the air, so it needs to be cleaned fairly regularly, particularly if not worn often. Platinum Platinum is typically 95 per cent pure, making it one of the purest precious metals used in jewellery. Platinum is used in signet rings because it does not fade or discolour over time. The density of platinum also makes it extremely durable over time.

Platinum is a good alternative to white gold because it has a similar appearance, but does not discolour. Strength of Platinum Platinum is a good choice for a women's signet ring, particularly for consumers interested in a signet ring with engraved gems, as opposed to classic engraving. The strength of platinum makes it a good candidate for securing loose gemstones. However, on the downside, the strength of platinum also makes it much harder to engrave, and platinum women's signet rings are not quite as affordable as palladium and sterling silver. Additionally, platinum's purity makes it a great choice for consumers with skin allergies or sensitive skin. Palladium Palladium is the least popular precious metal used for women's signet rings. Palladium is usually found as the companion of zinc and copper. Palladium is both ductile and malleable and it has a shiny, silver, metallic appearance. Palladium is another metal that is a good substitute for white gold. Palladium is tarnish-resistant and also much more pure than gold and sterling silver, making it hypoallergenic. Palladium is also a good alternative to platinum because it has a similar appearance, but is much less expensive.

However, because of the strength of palladium, it is often much harder to engrave, similar to platinum. Women's Signet Ring Shapes Once a consumer has chosen a type of metal, the next thing to consider is what surface shape the buyer desires. Women's signet rings come in a variety of shapes but the most popular are oval, square, circle, and heart. Sometimes the shape is incorporated into another design, such as the Irish claddagh. One important thing to keep in mind when choosing a modern women's signet ring, is what type of engraving the consumer is looking to get on the ring. A buyer should keep this in mind so that they choose a women's signet ring with enough surface area for the desired engraving. Types of Engravings on Women's Signet Rings What makes a signet ring different from other women's rings, is the inscription on the surface of the ring. Therefore, choosing the engraving is an important step in the buying process of a women's signet ring. Modern engravings usually include a symbol, such as a cross, a personalised design, or an individual's initials. Engravings are done either directly into the metal or with gemstones.

For consumers who are interested in a women's signet ring, an antique women's signet ring is a unique and intricate option. How to Buy a Women's Signet Ring on eBay Women's signet rings are available in many different metals, shapes, and engravings. While there are a few things for you to consider before shopping for a women's signet ring, eBay is here to help narrow down the selection once you have made some decisions. If you are looking for a white gold women's signet ring, eBay has items that match this description. Simply type white gold women's signet ring into the keyword box within the eBay website portal and click search. A list of items matching this exact description is then be populated for you to view. Because any type of jewellery is often an investment, eBay helps ensure that you are buying a quality piece from a reputable seller To help ease your mind, eBay provides a forum for buyers to give feedback to individual sellers. You can view each seller's feedback to help determine which sellers provide quality women's signet rings. This is just one way eBay helps make the women signet ring buying process quick, easy, and worry-free.

Conclusion Although they are no longer used solely as official seals, women's signet rings continue to have their place in the jewellery market. Today, it is popular to purchase a women's signet ring with a personal engraving on the surface, such as a symbol or a wearer's initials. Consumers have a few things to consider before shopping for a women's signet ring. First and probably the biggest decision, is what type of precious metal a buyer is interested in for the women's signet ring. Once that is decided, a consumer must choose what surface shape they are interested in, as well as what engraving is desired. Women's signet rings are also popular items for those who collect or wear antique jewellery. Antique women's signet rings are uniquely designed with an official seal or signature used to stamp items. Whether it be antique or modern, a women's signet ring is a staple piece that has its place in every jewellery box.

Tags: How to Select your Signet Ring | eBay How to Select your Signet Ring Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Paste a YouTube Video URL Please enter a valid YouTube URL Link to an eBay page Only URLs from within eBay are allowed Add a caption Signet Rings or Seal Rings in the Ancient world A signet (Seal) ring is a device for making an impression in wax, clay, paper or some other medium. The original purpose was to authenticate a document, a wrapper for one such as a modern envelope, or the cover of a container or package holding valuables or other objects. The seal-making device is also referred to as the seal matrix. The imprint it creates as the seal impression.

The design on the impression will reverse (be a mirror-image of) that of the matrix, which is especially important when script is included in the design, as it very often is. However engraved gems were often carved in relief, called cameo in this context, giving a "counter-relief" or intaglio impression when used as seals. Except of the practical use as seals the signet rings were proofs for the social status of the holders. The ring had tremendous financial and emotional value for the holder as was passing in the family from generation to generation. The most important factors that you should consider are: 1. Metal - Gold, White Gold, Sterling Silver 2. Metal Purity - 18K, 14K, 9K, 925 3. Head Shape - Oval, Round, Square, Cushion 4. Head Size - Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large 1. The most Classic Metals for Signet Rings are Gold and Sterling Silver. 2. Traditionally the Gold Rings are 18K or 14K of course there is always the 9K Gold. Silver must be 925 Sterling Silver 3.

The most Characteristic Head Shape is Oval but according to the design you may also select another shape. For example a lot of times we must use a Round Head Ring for a Round Design. 4. The Head Size varies according to the needs. The finger size also is a very important factor that you should put under consideration, you can't have a small finger size and select an Extra Large Ring. If your finger size is big (above 8US) don't hesitate to select an Extra Large Ring, there is nothing more beautiful from an Extra Large Ring in any Shape Oval, Round, Cushion ........

Question: What was the original purpose of a signet ring
Answer: Seal